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In the quiet hours between night and morning, when the five terminals at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) are often empty, a simple act of kindness transformed what could have been a nightmare into a story of compassion and humanity. And if it weren't for a letter written by Tanna Swanson and sent to Houston Airports, this story would have never been told. Tanna Swanson flew into Houston to attend a funeral. "I was already feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed," she wrote from her home in Lahaina, Hawaii. "I arrived at the airport at 1 a.m. and the rental car shuttle had dropped me off at Terminal C." Swanson's flight back to Maui was scheduled to depart at 5 a.m. on Friday, August 2. After sitting in the empty terminal for about an hour, Swanson double-checked her flight itinerary and realized her flight would be out of Terminal D. A security guard encouraged the woman to walk directly to the terminal.The self-described 67-year-old "senior with a bad knee" says she hesitated but walked from Terminal C to Terminal D around 2 a.m. – when both the Skyway and Subway systems shut down for daily maintenance before resuming service ahead of the first flights of the morning. "Terminal D was also quite empty," wrote Swanson, "aside from a few personnel polishing the floors." Eager to get home, Swanson says she patiently sat in the Terminal D Ticketing Lobby for another half-hour before rechecking her flight details, "and it was then that I realized that I no longer had my I.D. with me."With a pit in her stomach, she described feeling overwhelmed and alone - again. In August 2023, Tanna Swanson was among the Hawaiians impacted by a series of wildfires on the island of Maui. The fires are the worst natural disaster in the state's history. More than 2,200 structures in the community of Lahaina were damaged or destroyed – including Swanson's. A year later, worry and anxiety returned as she panicked at the airport."Losing my I.D. in such an unfamiliar environment only added to the stress. I felt completely lost and confused. But then Mark appeared like a guardian angel." Mark Batson is a veteran employee of Houston Airports. The Custodial Supervisor has held many roles at Bush Airport over his two decades of public service for Houston Airports - the aviation department for the City of Houston. He started his career with Houston Airports as a skilled laborer. He worked in ground transportation as a regulatory investigator and mitigated traffic along the Departures and Arrivals curbs at Bush Airport before becoming a senior customer service representative and eventually a custodial supervisor. His experience has connected him with thousands and thousands of passengers and every corner of Houston's biggest airport. Batson, who works the overnight shift, was nearing the end of his workday when his path crossed with Swanson's. She explained that she believed she dropped her identification card – needed to board an airplane – in a women's restroom in the Terminal C Ticketing Lobby. With her bad knee, Swanson worried she would have to walk to retrieve the card. "Mark made some calls on his radio… by now, it was almost 3 a.m. He explained how I could take the Subway train back to Terminal C, as the trains would start running in a few minutes." Swanson explained. "While giving me directions on navigating the airport, Mark was keen to notice that I wasn't comprehending what he was saying."Instead of sending Tanna Swanson on her way, Mark Batson never left her side. “Tanna Swanson is a kind woman who was in distress and needed help,” wrote Mark Batson in an email with Houston Airports Communications. “I could tell she was very grateful for my help.”He escorted her back to Terminal C on the subway, using his radio to communicate with staff members as they searched for the I.D. "Sure enough, a kind woman had found my I.D. and gave it to the custodian cleaning the bathroom," wrote Swanson. Batson escorted his new friend back to Terminal D so she could clear TSA Security and be on her way. The chance encounter lasted less than an hour on August 2. The moment's meaning—however fleeting—could be measured by the time and thought Tanna Swanson took to write a letter of gratitude. She sent the letter to Houston Airports on August 20, more than two weeks after crossing paths with her 'guardian angel.' "Mark's compassion and generosity in that moment were nothing short of extraordinary. He saved me that day," Swanson recounted. "After losing my home and business in the Maui fire last year, people like Mark remind me that there is still so much good in the world."Good in the world – airports included. “I am genuinely touched that she took the time to write such a heartfelt letter on my behalf,” said Batson of his surprise to receiving the gracious message weeks after meeting Swanson. “The letter means a great deal to me, and I cannot fully express how much her gesture of recognition means to me.”Mark Batson's actions are exceptional and kind – and fortunately for other passengers, they are not unique. Houston Airports employees strive to deliver world-class service every day, no matter the time of day, the terminal, or the circumstances. Whether it's a note of gratitude from Hawaii or a compliment shared through the Houston Airports Online Feedback Portal, connections made between any of the 1,300 Houston Airports employees and passengers are meaningful and memorable. Sometimes, those genuine connections happen in seconds during a pickup or drop-off; other times, they stretch minutes across multiple terminals."Mark Batson's kindness has left an indelible mark on Tanna Swanson, one that she will carry with her as she continues her journey through life," said Andrew Czobor, Assistant Director of Terminal D for Houston Airports. "She will never forget her positive experience at Bush Airport. It's a testament to the power of good deeds – big or small - and their impact on those in need."RELATED | Small backpack, big heart: How a lost ‘Rhino’ brought joy to Bush AirportRELATED | Passenger praises HOU employee for exceptional kindnessRELATED | Houston Airports employees offer comfort and support during global IT outage

Passengers traveling through George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) can now experience the first wave of exciting new retail and dining options slated for the new Terminal D-West Pier. Houston Supply Co., which opened its doors on Monday, August 19, offers a mix of news and convenience essentials with a distinctly Houstonian touch.Strategically located to serve passengers moving between Terminals C and D, Houston Supply Co. is packed with everything a traveler might need—from cold drinks, phone chargers and first aid supplies to fresh market options like sandwiches and fruit. For those looking to bring home a piece of Texas, the store also features Houston-inspired merchandise, including cowboy hats, souvenirs and other unique items that reflect the city's spirit.In addition to its wide range of offerings, Houston Supply Co. introduces a modern shopping experience with contactless pay options. Guests can scan and pay for their purchases at smart kiosks, ensuring a quick and seamless transaction as they prepare for their flights.“The opening of Houston Supply Co. marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Bush Airport,” said Libby Hurley, Assistant Director of Concessions for Houston Airports. “This store is just the beginning of an exciting new era for our airport. We are committed to enhancing the passenger experience with a diverse and dynamic selection of retail and dining options like LEGO and local restaurants The Annie and The Kitchen. Houston Supply Co. is the first of several new retail and dining options to open in Terminal D-West Pier in the coming months. As the airport continues to grow and evolve, Houston Airports is committed to providing travelers with a world-class experience.LEARN MORE | New IAH Terminal D-West to be a foodie and shopper's paradise

Houston Airports is advancing its mission to deliver a seamless travel experience with the rollout of its latest cashless parking system at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). As part of a phased approach, the Red and Blue Garages are transitioning to a fully cashless system, which will be complete in early September.The new system utilizes License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, which expedites entry and exit for vehicles with parking reservations. Additionally, near-Field Communication (NFC) capabilities enable contactless payment through digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, further streamlining the payment process.The technology supports some efficient options for customers: 1. A customer can make a parking reservation online, at least 12 hours before heading to the airport. The vehicle's license plate number - included in the reservation details – will be read by the LPR technology, creating a seamless experience when entering and exiting the garage.2. Upon entering a Houston Airports parking facility, customers without a parking reservation can tap or insert a credit card and use the same credit card to exit or take a parking ticket from the kiosk. The ticket is linked to the vehicle's license plate number. When exiting the garage, the system will read the license plate number and prompt the customer to pay by credit card.3. Customers can use credit cards to enter the parking facility. When they exit, they must pay with the same credit card.Houston Airports strongly encourages customers to reserve parking online. Doing so guarantees a parking spot in the facility, often saves the customer money, and offers a seamless experience entering and exiting the garage with no credit card or ticket required. “At Houston Airports, our mission is to connect people, cultures and economies of the world to Houston. We do that through our strategic priorities of making our passengers happy while building platforms for future success,” said Walt Gray, Director of Parking and Ground Transportation for Houston Airports. “Implementing a cashless parking system aligns perfectly with our mission by providing a more efficient, secure, and convenient travel experience for our passengers.” The cashless parking system rollout will be implemented in phases across all Hobby Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) parking facilities. The initial phase updated seven customer lanes at ecoPark 2 at Bush Airport to accept cashless payments in June 2024. By September, Hobby Airport's entrances and 10 Garage exit lanes will operate a fully cashless system. The phased project will continue, with all parking facilities transitioned to cashless payment by the end of May 2025.As Houston Airports continues this rollout across all its facilities, passengers can expect quicker transactions, reduced congestion, and a more sustainable operation. The shift to cashless parking reflects the commitment of Houston Airports to innovation and improving passenger satisfaction at every step of the journey.

Despite severe storms and a global IT outage, Houston Airports is set to welcome more passengers this summer than during the summer of 2023. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend 2024, Houston Airports expects to welcome 19 million passengers, about 2 million more than last year and a record for the City of Houston's airport system. New airlines at Hobby Airport, direct flights to nearly 190 destinations, and more flights to the hottest summer destinations are helping Houston Airports shatter records.Houston Airports is ready to greet more than 880,000 passengers, collectively, at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) during the five-day period that begins Thursday, Aug. 29 and ends Monday, Sept. 2. The single busiest day of holiday travel will be Friday, Aug. 30. That’s a projected increase of 4% more when comparing the same timeframe to 2023 and 10% more when compared to 2022. Hobby Airport is ready to welcome more than 205,000 people during the holiday travel period. Bush Airport is anticipating more than 680,000 people to move through its five terminals. More than 80% of passengers will board a domestic flight, while nearly 20% are bound for international destinations.Because of continued record summer travel crowds, Houston Airports recommends that passengers arrive early to the airport and reserve parking online, especially as construction of a new international terminal continues at Bush Airport.Plan ahead and reserve parking online: It’s the easiest way to guarantee a parking spot at the Terminal garages or  ecopark  locations. You can pre-book, adjust and make valet reservations here. Anticipate high parking volumes at the Terminal garages. Please allow yourself extra time to find a parking space, and if necessary, navigate to another parking location  if your first parking choice is full.Picking up passengers curbside? Wait at a  cell phone  lot  until your passenger is ready at the Arrivals curb with their bags. All five terminals are connected through our Subway and Skyway trams. Passengers are encouraged to move to Terminals A, B or C for faster pickup.CONSTRUCTION | Construction at IAH will allow for the development of a new world-class international terminal. As the projects move forward on time and within budget, construction may impact traffic, mainly during morning and afternoon peak travel times. Friday is forecasted to be the single busiest travel day this extended holiday weekend. As we work to minimize the impact on the traveling public, we ask passengers and their families to follow these important recommendations to ease traffic delays, reduce roadway congestion and enhance the passenger airport experience.

August 26 is National Dog Day, and who better to celebrate than our furry friends who bring joy to travelers every day? At George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), our incredible team of therapy dogs are more than just adorable companions – they're pawsome stress relievers!(Swipe through the photos above to meet some of our canine rockstars!)Whether you're catching a connecting flight or embarking on a long-awaited adventure, a cuddle with one of our therapy pups can be just the thing to turn a frown upside down. Their calming presence and unconditional love go a long way in easing travel anxieties for passengers of all ages.These dedicated doggos, along with their volunteer handlers, are an integral part of the commitment by Houston Airports to providing a positive and welcoming experience for every traveler. They brighten terminals with their playful spirit and wagging tails, offering a moment of comfort and connection amidst the hustle and bustle of air travel.Not all our furry heroes were featured in photos, but rest assured, we appreciate each and every one of them! These canine ambassadors are a true reflection of Houston's warm hospitality, and we're incredibly grateful for their service.Want to learn more about the amazing Houston Airports Pet Therapy program and how you can get involved? Click Here!Now, get ready to melt your heart with some seriously adorable dog pics! (Remember to swipe through!)

A group of young women, fresh off their summer camp counseling duties, recently embarked on a journey that would broaden their horizons and ignite their passions. The group visited Houston Airports to explore potential career paths and gain insights into the complex operations of a major aviation hub and one of the nation's busiest airport systems.The Camp Counselor Career Catalyst Training program aims to empower underserved youth between the ages of 16 and 21 by providing them with essential workplace skills and career exploration opportunities. The U.S. Department of Labor Workforce Pathways for Youth grant funds the program to expand access to employment and on-the-job opportunities for underserved young people."Research shows that working as a summer camp counselor helps develop skills needed in the workplace, such as communication, team building and conflict resolution," said Kathy Elliott, Senior Manager – Girl Experience and Program Innovation for Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council. "The grant helped us recruit and employ staff from historically underserved and marginalized groups. In addition to working as a camp counselor, they received extra training in workforce development skills, career exploration opportunities and educational resources, so they are set up for success after summer camp ends."This group of young women from Greater Houston was eager to discover how these skills could be applied to future careers. In the final week of the program, they visited Bush Airport.Their visit to Houston Airports was a highlight of the program. They delved into various departments, from Airside Operations to Emergency Management, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the airport's intricate workings. Maria Sanchez, a longtime employee of Houston Airports, explained how the Airport Operations Center works as a dispatch center for Houston Airports. Frank Ciaccio and Austen McMillin with Houston Airports Emergency Management detailed how airports need to be ready to handle various emergencies. Randy Dale summarized the reach of Houston's airports- with concessions, airlines and other necessary stakeholders that help make airports successful. David "Hoss" Robertson talked about how Houston Airports works with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to manage wildlife across Bush Airport's acres and acres of land. Cassie Boone explained the runway inspections, concrete maintenance, and weather conditions impacting flight operations. Kelly Woodward, Chief Operating Officer for Houston Airports, talked to the group about why the aviation industry encompasses so much more than flying planes. "We were thrilled to host these young women and to show them the range of careers available within the Houston Airport System," said Woodward. "It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and to hear the thoughtful questions they asked during their visit."The young women commented how they were particularly impressed by the scale of operations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and Ellington Airport (EFD) and the dedication of the 1,200 Houston Airports employees."They were awestruck by the amount of work that goes into running the airport," said Elliott. "You may also see some of them apply in the future."  Some young women shared that they are now inspired to pursue careers in aviation, while others expressed interest in wildlife management and other airport-related roles. The experience left a lasting impression. "The visit was a testament to the power of exposure and mentorship," said Cassie Boone, Division Manager – Airside Operations for Houston Airports. "By providing young women with opportunities to explore different career paths, this visit was more than just a field trip—it was an opportunity for them to envision a future where they can play an active role in aviation."

In the grand scheme of lost and found items, a small, purple corduroy rhinoceros backpack might seem insignificant. But for four-year-old Orly, the “well-loved” bag brings a world of comfort and security. So when ‘Rhino the Dino’ vanished into the bustling ecosystem of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), a little girl’s heart was broken.Earlier this month, Orly and her family flew from Carrboro, North Carolina, to Houston for a sun-kissed vacation in Galveston. As with many families traveling with young children, chaos is often the norm. Amidst the flurry of boarding, baggage claim and the juggling of strollers, Rhino the Dino was inadvertently left behind.“I was flying alone with my 4 kids,” said Orly’s mother, Tracy Rose. “It does not surprise me at all that we left something behind.”The missing backpack was a blow, particularly given the circumstances. "We figured it out it was missing when we unpacked the car that night in Galveston,” Rose recalled. “We were fairly confident we left it on the rental car shuttle.”But sometimes, with a little bit of luck and a lot of heart, lost treasures find their way home.Enter Ben Herr, General Manager of the IAH Rental Car Shuttle which is operated by Transdev. His team is the unsung heroes of airport logistics, transporting passengers between Bush Airport Terminals and the IAH Rental Car Center 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Herr’s team takes pride in making connections.“Our drivers check the bus at the end of each run,” Herr explained. "If they find something, they turn it in to Lost and Found.” From there, a diligent process begins scanning luggage tags, contacting owners, and holding onto the forgotten items until they can be reunited with their rightful owners.“We find everything from roller bags to cell phones,” Herr said. “During the Houston Rodeo, we find a lot of lost boots and hats.”But it was Rhino the Dino who captured hearts. When Rose emailed Herr, he was determined to help. Through diligent searching and a touch of luck, the backpack was found. And when Orly was finally reunited with her beloved companion—a gift from her grandfather—the joy was palpable. “Just wanted to say thanks again to you and your team for finding our backpack,” Rose said in an email to Herr. “You made a little girl very happy!”A photo of Orly, beaming with delight as she clutched Rhino tightly, was shared with Herr. It’s a testament to the power of human kindness and the unexpected rewards of going the extra mile.“I also distinctly remember that the driver of the rental car shuttle was also really awesome helping me to load and unload the stroller while I managed the luggage and the kids,” wrote Rose in an email to Herr. “You have a great team.”In a world often dominated by headlines of chaos and inconvenience, the story of Rhino the Dino is a gentle reminder that even the smallest acts of care can make a big difference… and even in the fast-paced world of air travel, there’s always room for a little bit of magic.

Houston Airports is excited to announce the newest addition to its Volunteer Pet Therapy Program: Snickers, a charming four-year-old Sheepadoodle, an Old English Sheepdog bred with a Standard Poodle. Snickers, accompanied by his volunteer handler, Ron, made his debut at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) on June 25. Despite some initial hesitation, it was evident from the beginning that Snickers would be a cherished member of the popular pet therapy program.“He’s an absolute doll,” raves Ella Ghica, Manager of Volunteer Outreach Initiatives for Houston Airports. “Snickers has a knack for spreading smiles and creating a calming atmosphere. It was immediately evident that he was going to be a great addition to our ‘pawsome’ team.”Beyond his airport duties, Snickers also volunteers with Montgomery County’s Safe Harbor program, providing comfort to children and their mothers facing challenging circumstances. As Snickers settles into his new role, airport guests can look forward to encountering this furry friend and experiencing the therapeutic benefits of human-animal interaction while they wait for their flights. Houston Airports Pet Therapy Handlers are identifiable by their bright orange shirts embroidered with a Houston Airports logos. The K-9s walk Bush Airport and William P. Hobby Airport in red vests that read “therapy dog.” Houston Airports Volunteer Therapy Dogs offer comfort and ‘Houston friendly’ hospitality as they help the Customer Service team welcome guests to Houston’s airports. The dogs often participate in holiday parades throughout the airport and provide comfort during peak travel periods. Kelly Woodward, Chief Operating Officer for Houston Airports, happened to meet Snickers as he was patrolling IAH Terminal A. “Incorporating amenities like our Pet Therapy program is crucial for easing the nerves of passengers of all ages,” said Woodward of the world-class passenger experience Houston Airports strives to deliver. “Traveling can be stressful, and by offering engaging experiences like meeting Snickers, we aim to enhance the overall travel experience and create a more pleasant environment for everyone.” Click here to learn more about the Houston Airports Pet Therapy Program.

Houston Airports offers a gateway to destinations both near and far, perfect for those seeking to extend their summer adventures or embark on a new journey this fall.Global GetawaysFor the truly adventurous, consider a trip to the other side of the world. Taipei, Taiwan offers a captivating blend of ancient culture and modern metropolis. EVA Air whisks travelers from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to this dynamic city. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Australia or New Zealand. Beginning in October, United Airlines will offer direct flights to Sydney should you want to visit Australia and Auckland, Zealand, during the same adventure. It makes sense since you’ve already traveled that far! Closer to home, Panama City, Panama, beckons with its vibrant culture and tropical allure. United Airlines provides direct service to this Central American gem.South American AllureFor those seeking a unique and immersive experience, Buenos Aires, Argentina offers a captivating blend of European elegance and Latin American passion. With direct flights on United Airlines from Bush Airport, this cosmopolitan city is more accessible than ever.Mexican MosaicMexico, with its rich history, diverse landscapes and warm hospitality, offers a wealth of options for travelers seeking a more relaxed pace. Explore the colonial charm of Leon, Guanajuato, or the cultural richness of Mérida. For those drawn to history and architecture, Morelia and Puebla are must-visits. Adventure seekers will find solace in the vibrant city of San Luis Potosí. United Airlines provides direct flights to all these destinations from Bush Airport, making it easier than ever to experience the magic of Mexico while VivaAerobus flies passengers between Leon and H-Town.Domestic DelightsCloser to home, the cities of Austin, Boston, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. offer a diverse range of experiences with fewer crowds than you’d experience in the summer.Whether you're seeking live music, historical landmarks, or world-class dining, these destinations have something for everyone. Multiple airlines, including Southwest, United, American, Delta, JetBlue, and Spirit, offer direct flights from both William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and Bush Airport.Consider these unique destinations for your next adventure as the summer winds down. Whether you're seeking a far-off escape or a domestic getaway, Houston Airports offers a variety of options to inspire your wanderlust. After all, our airline partners fly directly to more than 190 destinations. Enjoy the friendly skies.

In the whirlwind of modern air travel, it’s easy for items to slip through the cracks. From forgotten phones to misplaced passports, Houston Airports Lost and Found at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) handle a staggering array of lost belongings.“We see it all,” said Daniel Mendez, a Customer Service Representative at Hobby Airport Lost and Found. “From cellphones and jewelry to the truly bizarre, like 50-inch TVs.”Thousands of passengers pass through the terminals every day, each carrying a unique set of belongings. When items go missing, the Houston Airports Lost and Found team becomes the first line of defense in reuniting owners with their cherished possessions. “We understand the stress of losing something important,” Mendez said. “Our goal is to make every effort to return lost items to their rightful owners.”From the moment an item is turned in, Houston Airports Lost and Found begins a meticulous process of cataloging and storing it. A detailed description is created and the item is securely held for 30 days. During this time, the team employs a variety of methods to locate the owner, including examining ticket stubs, phone numbers and even social media.“We’ve used Facebook to track down passengers before,” Mendez said. “It's amazing how often social media can help us reunite people with their belongings.”While the majority of lost items are relatively common — phones, wallets, keys — Houston Airports Lost and Found has encountered its share of unusual discoveries. From car keys to forgotten electronics, the airports have seen it all. In Fiscal Year 2024: Hobby Airport received 1,587 items and returned nearly 80% of the items to their owners. Bush Airport received 4,542 items and returned nearly 60% of the items to their owners.Earlier this summer, Bush Airport reunited Donnie Campbell with his laptop after he accidentally left it at a restaurant inside Terminal A. “I wanted to send a compliment and a huge thank you to the wonderful people in the Lost and Found Department,” Campbell wrote via a Houston Airports online feedback form. "They were simply so wonderful in helping me get my laptop back to me. You are such good people!” Campbell noted the Lost and Found staff and Houston Airports Customer Service Representative Gabriele Mckown, who talked him through the reporting and recovery process. “The entire process was seamless and very rewarding on my side,” wrote Campbell. "I just had to write a note of thanks. Truly appreciated! Thank you!” For those who believe they’ve lost an item at either airport, the process of recovery is straightforward. Visitors can inquire in person or by phone, providing a detailed description of the lost item and proof of ownership.“It’s clear our team takes great pride in ensuring a positive outcome for our passengers,” said Russell Marine, Division Manager – Customer Service for Houston Airports. “Having such dedicated and caring individuals on the team makes a significant difference, and I wanted to acknowledge and celebrate that.” While the work can be challenging, the satisfaction of reuniting a passenger with a lost item is a reward in itself. “Knowing that we’ve helped someone recover something important makes the job worthwhile,” said Mendez.The Process of Reuniting Passengers with Their BelongingsHouston Airports, the TSA and airlines all manage Lost and Found options. If an item is left at a TSA Checkpoint, the passenger should first check with TSA. If an item is left on an airplane or inside an airline lounge, the passenger should check with the airline first. If an item was left somewhere else in the airport. Individuals must provide a detailed description, proof of ownership, and a valid government-issued photo ID or driver’s license to claim an item.Bush Airport Lost & Found3870 North Terminal Road (Terminal E 1st Level)Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, including holidays. Visitors can report lost or misplaced articles in person, online using the "Report Now" link or by phone at 1-833-253-2940. Click here to learn more about TSA and Airline Lost and Found at Bush Airport.Hobby Airport Lost & Found7800 Airport Blvd (Baggage Claim)Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, including holidays. Visitors can report lost or misplaced articles in person, online using the "Report Now" link or by phone at 1-833-274-7020Items found at both airports are held for 30 days. After this period, unclaimed items are salvaged. Click here to learn more about TSA and Airline Lost and Found at Hobby Airport.---RELATED | Houston Airports customer service shines in memorable interaction with U.S. CongresswomanRELATED | Guardians of the Gates: The unsung heroes of Houston's airports

The team at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) demonstrated their commitment to delivering exceptional customer service during a recent interaction with U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (CA-43) who was in Houston to attend the funeral of U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee who died from pancreatic cancer in July after representing the 18th Congressional District - which includes Bush Airport - for three decades.IAH Airport Service Representative Juan Lazalde and IAH Airport Service Representative Supervisors Douglas Ramirez and Sherrill-Ann Clarke welcomed Congresswoman Waters and her daughter and worked with an airline at IAH Terminal A to print boarding passes and bag tags for the 85-year-old woman.Waters took photos with airport staff, who presented her with a Skytrax airport pin. The pin celebrates Bush Airport as a 4-Star Skytrax Airport and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) as the first and only 5-Star Skytrax Airport in North America. “We thank you for allowing us to serve you and your family during this somber time, and we hope that you will allow us to serve you in the future,” said Sherrill-Ann Clarke, Airport Operations Supervisor for Houston Airports. The Congresswoman expressed her gratitude, took more photos, and left with fond memories of her experience at IAH.Clarke helped to escort Waters to an airline lounge before the Congresswoman boarded her flight. Despite the somber occasion of her visit to Houston, Clarke shared that the Waters was joyful as she reminisced about Jackson Lee’s fondness for Houston Airports.“This is another example of our team’s customer service excellence,” said Andrew Czobor, Houston Airports Assistant Director for IAH Terminal D. "No matter who the passenger is, providing world-class customer service is crucial to the overall passenger experience. Our goal is to ensure every traveler feels valued and cared for, and this brief encounter with Congresswoman Waters exemplifies our commitment.”

Behind the gleaming terminals and bustling concourses of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), a small team diligently ensures the safety and security of millions of travelers. These are the professionals of the Badging and Access Control Office, the critical yet often overlooked guardians of airport security."Our team is the bedrock of airport security," said Fletcher Clark, Assistant Director of Security for Houston Airports. We are the final checkpoint before someone enters a restricted zone, and we take this responsibility very seriously."Each application for an airport badge undergoes a rigorous review, including FBI background checks and Department of Homeland Security threat assessments. Proof of citizenship or work eligibility is also required. Only those who pass muster receive the coveted airport badge.Airlines workers, vendors, retail and restaurant teams, and airport staff must all be properly badged to work inside the airport or on the airfield. "Accuracy is paramount in this process," said Mary Gonzalez, Airport Security Coordinator at IAH. "The team meticulously reviews each application, scrutinizing identification documents and verifying all personal data. We understand the critical nature of our role and its profound impact on the airport's overall safety and efficiency."At Bush Airport, a team of 18 specialists forms the backbone of airport security. Each day, they vet and credential approximately 75 people and renew credentials for approximately 185 people. The IAH Badging Officer manages the renewal of credentials for around 27,500 people annually. The process is equally meticulous at Hobby Airport, where a smaller trusted team of five supports approximately 9,000 badged airport workers. Each day, the HOU office receives about 62 visitors and issues an average of 21 badges. While the scale differs, the commitment to security remains unwavering.The office also controls access to card readers throughout the airport, conducts at least three annual audits of all companies and law enforcement departments and reports findings to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)."In a world where security is paramount, the Badging and Access Control Offices at Houston's airports are the first line of defense to keeping the skies safe," said Roberto Reyes Cotto, Airport Security Coordinator for HOU. "Passengers may not know it, but the work done by our teams is an essential component of the seamless travel experience that millions rely on each year."WORK WITH US | Jobs at Houston's airports